Ferry from Athens to Naxos: times, prices and booking (2026)
Naxos, the largest Cycladic island, has up to 7 sailings a day from Piraeus in summer. Times, prices, fast boat vs large ferry, and what changes in winter.
- Piraeus to Naxos: from 3h15 on Seajets, and 5h15 to 7h on Blue Star Ferries, which stops at other islands.
- Adult tickets from about €42, cars from about €85 (Ferryhopper, October 2026).
- In winter Seajets barely sails to Naxos; Blue Star runs all year.
Naxos is a big island best explored by car. Bringing a car from Athens, Blue Star is the cheaper option; book early in summer. In winter, plan around Blue Star only.
How long is the ferry from Athens to Naxos?
Piraeus to Naxos is about 98 nautical miles (about 181 km).
| Company | Type | Crossing time | Sailings a day |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seajets | High-speed | 3h15 to 4h25 | 2–4 |
| Blue Star Ferries | Conventional | 5h15 to 7h | 2–3 |
Figures according to Ferryhopper, October 2026. Up to 7 sailings a day in summer. Ferries usually call at Paros first.
Summer vs winter
- Summer: daily sailings with both companies.
- Winter: according to Ferryhopper's schedules, Seajets sails to Naxos only once a week in January. Blue Star Ferries keeps sailing almost daily.
How much is the ferry to Naxos?
- Passenger: from about €42 per adult, one way. Blue Star is usually cheaper.
- Car: from about €85. Two adults with a car: about €167 from Piraeus to Naxos.
Which Piraeus gate?
According to Ferryhopper, Naxos ferries leave from gates E4, E6, E7, E9 and E10. Check your ticket and the port boards.
Getting to Piraeus: from the airport take metro line 3 straight to Piraeus station (up to 59 minutes) or the 24-hour X96 bus. From central Athens (Syntagma, Monastiraki) take metro line 1 or 3. The port is huge: walking from the entrance to your gate can take up to 30 minutes, so check your gate on the ticket. Airport to Piraeus and the city.
Bring a car or rent on the island?
Naxos is big, with mountain villages and far-flung beaches, so a car is worth it. You can take one on Blue Star or rent at Naxos port. A car rented in Athens needs written permission from the rental company. Car rental in Greece.
Tips before you book
- July and August: book ahead, especially with a car or if you want a cabin on a night sailing.
- Meltemi wind: from mid-May to mid-September a strong north wind blows. High-speed boats are cancelled first, and sometimes the port authority stops all sailings. When strong wind is forecast, a large conventional ferry is the safer choice.
- Strikes: when the seamen's union strikes, all ferries stay in port. Check today's strikes and the strike calendar.
- Spare day: never come back from the island on the day of your flight home.
- Ticket and passport: most companies send an e-ticket with a QR code. Bring your passport and arrive at least an hour before departure.
More on ports, winds and tickets: Ferries in Greece: the complete guide.
More on the island: Naxos destination guide.
FAQ
How long is the ferry from Athens to Naxos? From 3 hours 15 minutes on Seajets, and 5h15 to 7 hours on Blue Star Ferries.
Are there ferries to Naxos in winter? Yes. Blue Star Ferries sails almost daily in winter. High-speed boats cut back sharply.
Can I combine Paros and Naxos? Yes. Short sailings link Paros and Naxos, so it is easy to visit both on one trip.
Crossing times, companies and fares are based on Ferryhopper and the operators' sites, October 2026. Fares are "from" prices for one adult, one way, and change by season and vessel. Check the current price when you book.
